Bay County, FL Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Exotic and wild animals are controlled by the state, not Bay County. Section 379.3762 makes it unlawful for any person to possess wildlife, whether native to Florida or not, without first obtaining a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. FWC classifies captive wildlife into three tiers: Class I animals such as big cats, apes, and large crocodilians present the greatest danger and are barred as personal pets except for narrow grandfathered holders; Class II animals like monkeys and alligators require experience and caging standards; and Class III wildlife require a no-cost permit to possess. FWC sets caging, liability-insurance, and property standards and inspects facilities, and Bay County refers exotic-animal complaints to state wildlife officers.